Joy Takes Flight (Alaskan Skies Book #3): A Novel

By Bonnie Leon

Kate Evans and Paul Anderson are finally married, settling in, and starting a family. They rejoice when Kate finds she is pregnant, but soon it is clear that there are hurdles ahead. Should she continue in her dangerous profession as an Alaskan bush pilot? Can she really fall into the role of a wife? Then tragedy strikes, life begins to unravel, and Kate fears she may have lost Paul for good.

Chock-full of high-flying adventure, romance, and the drama of life, Joy Takes Flight is the exciting conclusion to Bonnie Leon's Alaskan Skies series.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
• Release date: Jul 1, 2012
• ISBN: 9781441238184

Bonnie Leon

From childhood, Bonnie Leon cherished the legends and family history handed down through her Aleut ancestors. The best-selling author of many historical novels, including the recently released Alaskan Skies series, Bonnie also teaches women’s Bible studies and speaks at writing seminars and conventions. She and her husband, Greg, live in Oregon.

Book preview

Cover

- 1 -

Kate stared into the church mirror and recited the name once more. Mrs. Paul Anderson. She’d tried on the name many times, and in less than an hour it would truly be hers. This all felt like a dream. She’d thought she’d lost him. And now she was about to become Paul’s wife.

She turned to the side and smoothed her floor-length gown. Her dear friend, Muriel Stevens, had convinced her to use a little extra makeup, and she’d made sure her hair was perfectly coiffed. Still, she looked like Kate Evans—tall and athletic, her auburn hair peeking out from beneath a veil and hazel eyes vibrant with anticipation. Kate Anderson. Mrs. Paul Anderson.

February 26, 1938, would draw a line in Kate’s history, one that stated she’d never be the same. She’d still be Kate the bush pilot who loved a challenge, but she’d also be Paul’s wife . . . She’d be better because he shared her life, but she was a little frightened. She didn’t know how to be someone’s wife. Kate smiled at her image and almost giggled. Poor Paul. It wouldn’t be easy on him while she learned to relinquish some of her independence.

Kate glanced at the clock—thirty minutes. Nerves skittered up and down her spine, tickled her arms, and made her stomach flip. What kind of wife would she be? Kate thought of her mother. She was strong and supportive, always thinking of others. She knew how to do all the wifely things. She could sew up a dress in a day if needed and the food on her table was always delicious. Kate knew she’d never be that kind of wife. She barely knew how to cook and Paul was better at sewing than she was. Plus being submissive wasn’t something that came naturally. Paul knew that and he wanted to marry her anyway. A swell of joy rose up inside Kate. It wouldn’t be long now.

She let out a sigh. If only her parents could be here. Over the years she and her mother had talked about what her wedding would be like. Kate had always imagined that her parents would be part of this momentous day. Poor apple sales had put a stranglehold on their budget and drained most of their savings. There was no extra money for a trip to Alaska. Albert Towns, one of her first friends in the territory, would walk her down the aisle. He was as close to a father as she had here in Alaska.

The bangs Muriel had carefully combed to the side fell into Kate’s eyes. She pushed them back in place and considered using one of the pins that held the tiny flowers in her veil to clip them.

She folded her arms over her chest. No. She was still plain Kate, a pilot who didn’t care about what her bangs were doing.

She envisioned Paul—tall and broad shouldered, with coffee-colored hair and serious brown eyes. When he laughed, they’d brighten, and when he looked at her, they gentled. She loved to hear him laugh. Wonder engulfed her. She was about to marry the most amazing man in the world. But he was a man with a secret. She felt a quiver of uncertainty, but brushed it aside. She loved him. Questions and answers were for another day.

She turned her back to the mirror so she could see if the ribbon hung properly. The gown swept slightly longer in back than the front. She smoothed the soft peach lace that lay over the satin taffeta slip lining. Muriel and Helen had tried to talk her into a white gown, but Kate wanted something different. She’d never considered herself beautiful, but this gown made the most of her features and her figure. She imagined Paul’s expression when he saw her and a breath caught in her throat.

Oh, how I love you, she whispered, feeling happiness she’d never known. They would work out their differences. It might not be easy but they’d find a way. He was still afraid of losing her in a flying accident, but he’d said she could fly when and where she wanted, no strings. Kate knew she’d have to make some compromises. After today she’d never be just Kate, a woman who made her own choices and didn’t answer to anyone, except God. She and Paul would be forever bonded and what affected one would affect the other.

Again, her bangs dropped into her eyes. She removed a pin from her veil and secured them. She picked up her bouquet made of daisies, white asters, and tiny pink roses, then stepped back and studied herself in the full-length mirror. Today she was beautiful.

She glanced at the clock. It was nearly time.

The door opened and Muriel stepped in. She beamed. You look absolutely stunning.

Kate made a small twirl. You think so?

Absolutely. She smiled, but there was hesitation in her blue eyes.

Is everything all right? Kate asked.

Of course. Muriel compressed her lips.

How is Paul? Is he nervous?

Muriel glanced at the door. With a small shrug, she said, I’m . . . not sure. I mean, how can you tell, really?

Kate knew Muriel was keeping something from her. Apprehension stirred in her heart. You haven’t talked to him?

Muriel moved to Kate and placed her hands on Kate’s shoulders. Now, don’t get upset, I’m sure there’s an explanation.

Upset about what? An explanation for what? Apprehension exploded into fear.

Well . . . Paul’s not here yet.

What? But the ceremony begins in a few minutes. He has to be here. Are you sure?

Yes. Again Muriel’s eyes wandered toward the door. It’s snowing hard. I’m sure he’s on his way. It’s the weather. That’s all.

He’s only coming from the hotel. That’s not more than fifteen minutes’ drive.

Muriel pressed her hands together and changed the subject. Everything else is ready. The church looks absolutely gorgeous. Mrs. Simpson did a wonderful job with the flowers. Bless her for donating flowers from her hothouse. She lifted her brows and smiled playfully. And in spite of my mother and Sassa’s differences about decorating the reception room, they managed to come to agreement and everything looks lovely.

Kate didn’t care about the decorations. She needed to know what had happened to Paul. Where was he?

Wait until you see the cake. It’s gorgeous. The church is packed—

Paul should be here. Kate moved to the door, opened it slightly, and looked down the short hallway that led to the church foyer. The murmur of voices carried from the vestibule. Did he call?

Not that I know of. Muriel’s hand fluttered over her lace collar. Don’t worry, Kate. He’ll be here.

Not worry? How could she not worry? What if something happened?

I’m sure we would have heard.

If he was safe, then what had happened? As long as Kate had known Paul he’d been afraid to love anyone. It had been nearly seven years since his wife’s death, and since then he’d held his heart in check . . . until now. Maybe he’d changed his mind. Kate turned and looked at Muriel. Her voice tight, she asked, What if he doesn’t want to get married?

Of course he does, Muriel twittered. He loves you.

I know . . . but he’s had trouble . . . you know, with my flying and the loss of his wife.

That’s all behind him. Muriel sounded too cheerful. I’m sure it’s this terrible weather. Why, it’s nearly a blizzard out there.

You said the church is full. Everyone else managed to get here. Kate paced. A little wind and snow wouldn’t keep him away.

Well, whatever it is, I’m sure he has a good reason. Muriel glanced at the clock. It’s not quite time yet.

He should have been here thirty minutes ago. Kate could hear the strident tone in her voice and hated that she’d allowed her distress to show. She pressed her hands together and took a deep breath. Instead of achieving calm, her mind returned to how she’d called off her wedding to Richard three years ago, one week before they were to be married. If she’d done it, Paul might. People changed their minds about things every day. But he loves me. I know it.

The door opened and Muriel’s mother, Helen, and Paul’s native neighbor, Sassa, stepped into the room. Sassa ambled across the floor, her face aglow. She pressed chubby hands on Kate’s cheeks. You are beautiful!

Helen gazed at her. You’re stunning, dear.

Thank you. Is Paul here yet?

The two women glanced at each other. No. Not yet. But I’m sure he’s on his way, Helen said.

Kate walked to the door, opened it, and looked out. He’s not coming. I know it. He’s changed his mind.

Helen stepped up to Kate, encircled an arm around her waist, and closed the door. Her voice calm, she said, You wouldn’t want him to see you before the wedding. He’ll be here. I’m certain of it. He’d never change his mind. She took Kate’s hands. He loves you.

He does, but you know how hard he’s struggled to allow himself to care. Ever since his wife—

Helen put a finger to Kate’s lips. Now, no more of that. You’re about to marry Paul. You’ve got to have faith in him. He’ll do the right thing. He’d never desert you. Never. She led Kate to the mirror. How could he resist you? She smiled, her eyes alight.

Kate wished she possessed Helen’s serenity. What if something’s happened to him? What if he’s been in an accident?

Albert and Patrick have gone out to check the roads, but I’m sure he’s fine.

Sassa picked up Kate’s bouquet and handed it to her. Let’s see how you look. She stepped back. Perfect. She smiled.

Kate fought tears. No matter how much her friends tried to encourage her, she knew—Paul had changed his mind.

Bundled deep inside his coat, Paul paced the train station platform. Although his hood was pulled snugly around his face, icy wind swept down his neck. He kept his eyes on the track to the south. The train was late. He glanced at his watch. He was supposed to be at the church. He imagined Kate, waiting and distressed. The thought made him sick to his stomach. When he’d insisted on everyone keeping the secret, he never meant to hurt her. He’d been foolish. As soon as he knew there was a delay, he should have told her about the surprise. This was the day they’d waited for, dreamed about. And now he’d ruined it.

He strode inside the depot and to the ticket window. Any word on the train from Seward?

The clerk shrugged. In weather like this, ya never know. She’ll get here when she gets here.

She’ll get here when she gets here? Paul’s frustration nearly boiled over, but he clamped his mouth shut and walked away from the counter. He glanced at the clock. The ceremony was supposed to begin now. He stormed out to the platform and resumed pacing. He had envisioned Kate in her bridal gown, her eyes aglow with love and expectation. Tall and graceful, she’d look stunning as she walked down the aisle. He’d imagined it, dreamed of it. And now everything had gone wrong. Instead of anticipation, she must be feeling abandoned, afraid, angry. The last thing he wanted was to hurt her. I’m sorry, Katie. So sorry.

Wind whipped at his hood. This was intolerable. He’d have to leave. And then a train whistle echoed. He stared down the tracks, standing on the edge of the platform, willing the train to appear. And then he saw it, belching steam and chugging toward the station. Paul’s tense muscles released.

The train rolled into the station. He watched the windows, searching for Kate’s parents, but he didn’t see either one. They’d sent a wire. They were supposed to be on this train.

The engine clanked to a stop with a loud whoosh. Steam billowed, swirling around the train. Paul stepped down from the platform and walked alongside the cars, watching the faces of passengers as they disembarked. And then he saw them. Bill waved and Joan clutched her husband’s arm. Thank you, Lord. Paul strode toward them.

Bill held out his hand. Thought we’d never make it. He clapped Paul on the back. I’ve never seen so much snow in all my life.

Joan gave Paul a quick hug. We’re late, aren’t we? I can’t believe we held up your wedding. Kate must be beside herself.

She doesn’t even know you’re coming.

You didn’t tell her we’d been delayed?

I wanted it to be a surprise. I was sure you’d make it on time.

Joan clasped her hands together and pressed them to her chest. She doesn’t know where you are?

No. She doesn’t.

Joan shook her head side to side. Oh my. She must be in an absolute fret. Her groom hasn’t shown up.

I should have told her. I feel awful. But I thought it would work out. We better get a move on.

After getting the luggage, Paul loaded the bags into the trunk of the Towns’ car while Joan and Bill climbed in.

Kate sat on a chair, her bouquet in her lap. How could Paul do this to her? Tears slid down her cheeks. They’d talked and talked about their future and dreamed of what could be. She sniffled into a handkerchief. Now none of it mattered. He just couldn’t do it. Kate’s heart squeezed painfully. She doubted it would ever mend.

Helen and Sassa had gone to speak to the guests. Kate couldn’t bear to do it. Muriel knelt beside her and rested a hand on her arm. Don’t give up hope.

If he wants to be here and can’t make it, then something terrible has happened. Maybe someone should call the hospital.

Muriel looked stricken, but she smiled and managed to speak calmly. I’m sure there’s an explanation. One day, when you look back on your wedding, you two will laugh about this.

Kate compressed her lips. What explanation can there be? She knew. Love was just too great a risk. Whatever secret he’d left behind in San Francisco still had ahold of him. If only he would tell her, maybe she could help.

Sassa’s laughter echoed from the church entrance. Kate stood, hope stirring. Was it Paul? Was he here? She headed for the door, but before she could grasp the knob, the door swung open.

Katharine! her mother said, swooping in and catching her daughter in her arms. She held her tightly. I’m so sorry we’re late. We almost didn’t make it.

Mom! What are you doing here? Kate hugged her mother, joy and surprise bubbling up inside.

That wonderful husband, almost husband, of yours insisted we come. He paid our passage. He wanted it to be a surprise, but not like this. The weather kept us in Seward for two days. We were supposed to surprise you at the rehearsal dinner. She stepped back and gazed at her daughter. Oh my goodness. You are a picture of beauty. Absolutely stunning.

There’s my Katie girl, Kate heard her father say. He walked in, wearing a broad smile. You surprised?

Tears of joy streaming down her cheeks, Kate stepped into her father’s embrace. I had no idea. Kate wanted to run to Paul and throw herself into his arms. He truly was the most wonderful man. And he loved her. He loved her!

Sassa, Helen, and Muriel all stood watching, their eyes shimmering. You knew. All this time you knew! Kate exclaimed.

Paul made us vow to keep the secret, Helen said. I nearly told you. It was so hard to watch you suffer. She smiled sheepishly. But now he’s here and he’s ready to get married.

Everyone, except for Joan and Kate, filed out of the room. I’m a mess, Kate said.

All you need is a little touch-up. Joan tidied Kate’s hair a bit and her veil. Kate applied fresh lipstick and freshened her makeup, then stood back and looked in the mirror. Do I look all right?

I’ve never seen a prettier bride. Joan hugged her daughter, then looking at herself in the mirror, said, I’m a sight. She took off her coat and smoothed her dress. I changed on the train so I’d be dressed appropriately, but my hair is a mess. Kate handed her the brush and watched while her mother smartened up her hair.

I still can’t believe you’re here. Now everything is perfect.

Joan turned and looked at her. Perfect. She rested her hands on Kate’s arms. This is the wedding God meant for you, sweetheart. Paul’s the man the Lord chose. She smiled gently. You’re both blessed. You’ll be a good wife, I have no doubt.

I don’t know much about being a wife. I need to learn to cook. Kate giggled.

I doubt Paul cares much about any of that. Joan gave Kate a kiss on the cheek. I’d better go in. I love you, Katharine. With one more hug, she left the room.

Kate stood in front of the mirror and stared at herself. Her life was about to change forever. She pressed a hand against her stomach. It’s time for me to become Mrs. Paul Anderson.

- 2 -

Muriel opened the dressing room door and peeked in. It’s time.

Kate’s heartbeat picked up. Holding her bouquet, she stared at her reflection in the mirror.

Muriel stepped in. Circling an arm around Kate’s shoulders, she said, You ready?

Kate glanced down at the quaking bouquet in her hands. I guess. She laughed.

We better go. Your father’s waiting. He’s actually pacing. She tucked an arm into Kate’s and the two walked out of the room.

The sounds of a hymn being played on a piano drifted through the church. All of a sudden, Kate didn’t feel ready for this and wished the short hallway were longer. Everything seemed to be happening too fast. You’re being silly. You’ve been waiting and praying for this day.

She’d given up on Alaska, on flying, and on Paul. When she’d moved back to Yakima, Washington, she was certain her adventure was over. She’d decided to live an ordinary life—work in a store, be a clerk or . . . something commonplace. Maybe one day get married and have a family.

And then everything had changed. She’d returned to Rimrock Lake and an encounter with God had given her back her life. She remembered looking out over the lake, the whisper of wind in the pines and the presence of her friend Alison. Years before, Alison had died there in a plane Kate had been flying. But on the day Kate had returned, when she gazed at the lake, it felt as if her friend had spoken to her straight from heaven. Kate knew she had to return to Alaska. Her eyes teared at the memory and she felt washed anew in forgiveness and hope. If only Alison were here. She’d be so happy for Kate.

Maybe Alison is here. Maybe God gives people glimpses of the special days. She smiled at the idea.

Helen stood in the sanctuary doorway with Grace, one of Sidney’s nieces who’d agreed to be the flower girl. The youngster twirled, and the skirt of her frilly pink frock stood straight out. Flower petals flew out of her wicker basket.

Helen placed a hand on the little girl’s shoulder. That’s enough, Grace. You don’t want to fall. She picked up the petals and dropped them into the basket.

Helen spotted Kate and smiled. Oh my, you look lovely! She captured Kate in a quick embrace, then moved to the sanctuary entrance and nodded at a pianist, who immediately changed from a hymn to the melodic tune of Bach’s Arioso.

Prickles of excitement moved up Kate’s arms. This was it.

With a pat to Grace’s bottom, Helen sent the child down the aisle. The little girl walked slowly, just as she’d been taught, and tossed flower petals along the way. Muriel stepped to the entrance, holding her small bouquet of asters and daisies in front of her. When Grace was halfway down the aisle, Muriel stepped out and gracefully walked toward the front of the church.

Kate’s father approached his daughter. Eyes brimming, his salt-and-pepper hair looking slightly disheveled, he stood in front of his daughter.

She tamed a cowlick in his hair. There—you look perfect.

I got ready in a hurry. He chuckled, then reached out and gently took hold of Kate’s arms. It seems like yesterday you were my little Katie romping about the farm and begging me for rides in the plane. His voice broke. And now . . . you’re all grown up—a gifted and intelligent young woman. His smile was tremulous. I’m so proud of you.

Kate hugged him. Thank you, Daddy. But I’m me only because of you and Mom. You’re the best. I love you both so much. She kissed him on the cheek. I’m so thankful you’re here.

Her father linked Kate’s arm with his and he led her to the doorway. They stood side by side and waited until Muriel had made her way to the front of the church.

Kate’s gaze moved to Paul. He stood at the front with his neighbor and friend, Patrick. Lord, thank you for Paul. The quiet notes of I Love You Truly filled the sanctuary and the guests stood. The music swelled and so did Kate’s nerves. When her eyes met Paul’s, her stomach did a little flip. His look was ardent.

Unable to hold his gaze, she glanced at her bouquet trembling in her hands. She was about to become Mrs. Paul Anderson.

You ready, Katie? her father asked, giving her arm a squeeze.

She took a deep breath, gave a nod, and then stepped into the sanctuary beside her father. Everyone’s eyes were on her, but all she could see was Paul. Dressed in a gray wool worsted suit with a burgundy tie, he’d never looked more handsome. His shoulders seemed broader and his dark looks more captivating.

Paul’s gaze followed her as she walked down the aisle. A smile played at his lips. Love was in his eyes. This was just how she had imagined it would be.

The words of the song played through Kate’s mind. They were part of the reason she’d chosen it. When she was with Paul, life’s sorrows, its doubts and fears, faded. When he held her hand, she could feel his strength and she felt stronger. Together, they would face life’s challenges. And they’d never be alone.

The music stopped. Father and daughter stood before Reverend Stephens. Kate liked the minister. He’d always been kind and seemed to genuinely care for the people in the community. Although she missed a lot of Sundays because of work, when she did make services, his messages were always uplifting and enlightening.

He smiled and quietly asked Kate, You ready?

She glanced at Paul, then with a deep sigh of release, said, Yes. For a very long time.

The reverend chuckled, then cleared his throat and looked about the sanctuary. Kate glanced at the front row on the groom’s side and felt a prick of sadness. None of his family was here. He hadn’t invited them. She still didn’t know what terrible thing from his past plagued him and kept him estranged from his family. Maybe she’d never know.

Dearly beloved, began Reverend Stephens. We are gathered here in the sight of God—and in the face of this company—to join together this man and this woman.

Kate looked at Paul. He was staring at her, his eyes filled with devotion. Kate’s heart skipped a beat. He smiled and she wished the reverend would hurry so they could begin their new life.

The minister seemed to talk for an awfully long time before he finally asked, Who gives this woman in marriage to this man?

Her mother and I do, said Kate’s father. He turned to her and dropped a kiss on her cheek. We love you, Katie. He placed her hand in Paul’s, and then walked to the front pew and sat beside Kate’s mother. Dabbing at tears, Joan leaned against him. He took her hand.

Kate’s heart warmed. She and Paul would be like that. They’d grow old together and their love would become stronger.

Please step forward, Reverend Stephens said.

Clutching Paul’s hand, her legs trembling, Kate took two steps toward the minister. Paul’s hand was strong and calloused. She could feel his depth of character and the strength built of hard work. She was proud of him. She felt a gentle squeeze and answered back with one of her own.

As the pastor spoke about what it meant to be husband and wife, how they were to honor and respect one another, and to be a help to the other, Kate tried to listen. She knew it was important, but all she could think about was the tall, broad-shouldered man beside her and how good his hand felt in hers. She forced herself to keep her eyes on the minister, but she wanted to look at Paul. She could feel his pulse, strong and steady—his matched hers, as though they were already one.

She envisioned what life would be like for them. They’d stand together against the world, work together, make love whenever they liked, and they’d raise a family. She hoped their children looked like him. She loved his dark hair and eyes and his stalwart nature. She’d never liked how tall she was. At five foot ten, she towered over most other women. She hoped that if they had a daughter, she’d be a more suitable height.

She considered what their life would look like. She knew there would be troubles, but she was certain that together she and Paul could work them out. And he’d always stand by her.

In everything? The words flung themselves through her mind. Would he be able to support her job? She’d be away a lot, and every moment in the air held danger. He’d said he supported her, but once married he might change his mind. And what if he did?

Kate didn’t know the answer and she didn’t want to think about it, not today. In a few minutes she’d be Paul’s wife—that’s all that mattered.

Face one another, the minister instructed. He smiled down on them. Kate felt a pang of guilt. She hadn’t heard anything he’d said.

Do you, Paul Anderson, take Kate Evans to be your wife—to live together after God’s ordinance—in the holy state of matrimony? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or worse, in sadness and in joy, to cherish and continually bestow upon her your heart’s deepest devotion, forsaking all others, keep yourself only unto her as long as you both shall live?

Paul didn’t answer right away. Instead he seemed to breathe in Kate’s presence and the momentous occasion. And then in his deep steady voice, he said, I will.

Kate felt her legs grow weak. He meant it. He was hers for all time.

Reverend Stephens turned to Kate and repeated the vows. Kate gazed at Paul, her heart swelling with devotion. I will.

After the exchange of rings, Kate and Paul held one another’s hands, delighting in the moment and in one another.

Be one in heart and in mind, the minister said.

We are. Always and forever, Kate thought, wanting to hurry the minister along. She wanted to be Paul’s wife.

"Inasmuch as Paul and Kate have consented together